Coordinated resistance
At INC-3 in Nairobi, we saw a well coordinated attempt to block progress towards a strong, legally binding plastics treaty. A new coalition of fossil fuel- and plastic-producing countries were able to prevent an updated draft treaty being prepared, and to block plans for further formal work to take place before the next round of talks. Without this work, the chances of a strong plastics treaty grow slimmer.
There is a real risk that this coalition of ‘low ambition’ countries will continue their efforts to resist a strong plastics treaty. Ultimately, we could see time run out on the talks this year and either countries could agree to a treaty that doesn’t actually fix the problem, or they could fail to agree on a treaty at all. With up to a million people dying each year because of mismanaged waste, we can’t afford to let this happen.
The High Ambition Coalition
The good news is that there’s an alternative answer to this group of resistant countries: the High Ambition Coalition, which formed at the very beginning of the treaty process. This coalition is a group of 64 nations, including the United Kingdom, that are committed to restraining plastic production, protecting the environment and human health, and increasing access to recycling and waste management.
However, the bad news is that the High Ambition Coalition have gone quiet. Despite their name, they are failing to speak up collectively for an ‘ambitious’ plastics treaty.
With the emergence of the ‘low ambition’ group of countries pushing back on progress, it’s more important than ever for the High Ambition Coalition to speak out together with boldness. We need to make sure this chance to create a world-changing, legally binding treaty does not slip through our fingers.
Rather than quietly working at the edges of the negotiations, this High Ambition Coalition could actively drive and shape the talks, taking the initiative and steering the momentum towards a truly ambitious treaty, with justice at its heart. And that could make a real difference to the lives of people in poverty and to our planet.
How can I respond?
Thank you for getting involved with the Rubbish Campaign. Every action, event, prayer and gift helps to increase the pressure on world leaders to make this opportunity count.
The High Ambition Coalition have gone quiet, and we’re worried they’ve lost their voice. But you can help them to clear their throats and speak up, by sending them a remedy they can’t ignore!
